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An Inspired Chat with Elma Esparza of Outskirts

We recently had the chance to connect with Elma Esparza and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Elma, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that is bringing me the most joy lately is being “Grandma” — twice over. I was recently blessed with a grandson here in Edinburg, Texas, and a granddaughter in Clifton, Texas. Balancing that joy with my professional life has been especially meaningful. I work full-time leading an 8a EDWOSB pest control company — something rare in South Texas, and even more so in this industry where women CEOs are few and far between. My husband Adrian and I feel incredibly grateful that both of our businesses are thriving: he manages SPI Pest powered by Esparza in South Padre Island, while I focus on our operations here in Edinburg, just an hour away. Between the growth of our companies and the blessings of our grandchildren, life feels full and rewarding.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Elma Espericueta Esparza, and I lead an 8a EDWOSB-certified pest control company based in Edinburg, Texas. In an industry where women CEOs are few and far between, especially in South Texas, I take pride in showing that it can be done — and done successfully. Our company is built on integrity, hard work, and the commitment to protect homes and businesses while creating opportunities in our community.

What makes our story unique is that this isn’t just a business; it’s a family legacy in motion. My husband, Adrian, runs SPI Pest powered by Esparza in South Padre Island, while I focus on our operations here in Edinburg, just an hour away. Together, we are growing companies that are thriving in two regions of Texas. Our children are continuing the tradition and are leads in our companies.

On a personal note, I’ve recently been blessed with the title of “Grandma” twice — with a grandson in Edinburg and a granddaughter in Clifton, Texas. Balancing leadership with family has made this journey even more meaningful, and it reminds me every day why building something strong and lasting matters.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My dad saw me clearly before I could see myself. He instilled in me a deep belief that I am not limited by what the world sees, but only by what God sees — and God’s view is endless. That perspective shaped the way I approach challenges, opportunities, and leadership. It gave me the courage to step into spaces where women are often underrepresented, and to believe that my potential wasn’t defined by boundaries, but by faith and vision.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: Trust that God has already made it clear — you can, and you will. At times, it’s easy to get caught up in what the world says you can’t do, but God’s vision is so much greater than any limitation people may try to place on you. That truth has guided me through every stage of my journey — from stepping into leadership in an industry where women CEOs are rare, to building thriving businesses alongside my husband, to embracing the beautiful role of being a grandmother. Every success and every blessing has been a reminder that with faith, determination, and trust in God’s plan, there are no boundaries to what you can achieve.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would tell you that what truly matters to me is family. Everything I do begins and ends with them. I’m blessed with a daughter, Vivian, who is a doctor in Clifton, Texas, and who gave me my beautiful granddaughter. My son, Cory, works alongside me in the office as a Certified Applicator and has given me a wonderful grandson. My daughter, Jacki, leads as a supervisor on our Navy contract, and my son, Malachi, serves as the office manager of Esparza Pest Control and Eco-Logic Systems, Inc. And, of course, my husband Adrian — also a Certified Applicator — leads SPI Pest in South Padre Island.

They are not only my family, but also part of the heartbeat of our businesses. Their support, dedication, and love remind me daily that family isn’t just what I live for — it’s also what makes everything I do possible.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I understand deeply — that many people may not — is the immeasurable love of God and the power of His prudence. His love is not only endless but also guiding; it shapes the way I see myself, others, and the work I do. Through His prudence, I’ve learned that timing, patience, and wisdom are divine gifts. Even when things don’t unfold the way I planned, I can trust that God’s love and guidance are always at work, leading me exactly where I’m meant to be.

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All photos belong to me.

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